St Ives Things to See and Do

St Ives has a unique and vibrant history, so why not take a Guided Tour of St Ives and delve into the town’s rich heritage and colourful past. For a spookier option, immerse yourself in the darker side of St Ives and try a lantern ghost story walk with Shanty Baba. There’s also the St.Ives Comedy walk, ‘history with a humorous twist’: a hilariously funny and quirky take on the town’s heritage, to be taken with a pinch of salt. Don’t miss the St.Ives Pirate Walk too, a swashbuckling high seas adventure of pirate stories, instruction in the code and buried treasure.

Rest those legs and spot Cornwall’s wildlife by train! Enjoy one of the best scenic short train journeys in Britain on the St Ives Bay Line. Winding along the edge of the tide you’ll witness thousands of seabirds, rolling sand dunes and cliffs with stunning views of boats bobbing on the sea. Or jump in the sea yourself with St.Ives Surf School, with trained instructors on a blue flag beach in the centre of St Ives. Open seven days a week, the surf school provides a wide range of surf coaching, be it beginner, intermediate or advanced. Or if cycling is more your thing you could always hire one of the electric bikes from St Ives Bikes – ideal for getting up those steep hills in and out of the town, if you fancy an adventure out of St Ives for the day!

For an afternoon of entertainment, check out Kidz R Us, a St Ives-based Youth Theatre company and registered charity. Founded in 1994, it performs a full programme of shows throughout the year from pantomimes to musicals – with something for everybody. Alternatively you can visit St.Ives Leisure Centre, a fully equipped modern leisure centre with spectacular views of St.Ives and the bay from the pool and gym. For something a little different, why not try a unique afternoon of chocolate making? Workshops for all ages are available at Coco Kitchen, St Ives’ very own artisanal chocolate shop. Spend a delicious afternoon creating, moulding and decorating chocolate treats – and eat the result!

For a truly unique take on this historic seaside town, hop aboard St’ Ives’ very own “James Stevens No 10” for an unforgettable St Ives Boat Trip. After being neglected for many years, this former Lifeboat has been restored to her former glory following a three-year restoration programme. On your voyage, learn more about the boat’s history, packed with shipwrecks and heroic rescues as you enjoy a serene trip around the historic St Ives Bay. Trips are for up to 12 passengers, sea dogs are also very welcome.

For an alternative perspective of St Ives Harbour, join the Nemo Underwater Sea Safari, a glass-bottom boat with eight spectacular viewing panels! It’s the perfect opportunity for spotting all the sealife St Ives has to offer, including Atlantic Grey Seals and pods of Dolphins if you’re lucky! Whether you head East towards Godrevy Lighthouse or take a trip to Seal Island, this is a fantastic day out for all ages!